Bignor Hill

The South Downs Way runs right over Bignor Hill, and once you're up there, you understand why walkers make the effort. It's not a dramatic peak by any stretch - Sussex doesn't do drama - but the views south towards the coastal plain are genuinely worth the climb from Arundel direction.

On a clear day you can see proper distances across the Weald. The walk itself takes about an hour from the nearest road access, depending on your fitness and which route you tackle. It's manageable ground underfoot, chalky and firm most of the year, though it can get slippery after rain. The summit sits around 800 feet, which sounds modest until you're actually huffing up it in August.

History types will appreciate this stretch of the South Downs Way - it follows ancient routes that have been in use for millennia. There's not much infrastructure at the top itself, so bring water and don't expect a café. The real reward is the solitude and the walking itself, not some monument or visitor centre.

It works well as a half-day excursion if you're based at one of the local parks - Woodfire at Westerlands or the Old Farm Slindon site are both close enough for an easy drive to the trailhead. Best visited outside school holidays when you won't be fighting crowds. Families with teenagers will manage it fine; younger kids might find it a bit of a slog without proper incentive. Spring or autumn beats summer for actually enjoying the walk without melting.